Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

The vibrant colors of autumn have a way of turning the kitchen into a cozy haven filled with warmth and flavor. One very special dish captures that essence: Autumn Sausage Pasta with Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts. This flavorful meal weaves together the hearty essence of smoked sausage with the sweet notes of roasted butternut squash, creating a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings.

When I first tasted this dish, I felt the magic of the fall season within each bite. The roasted butternut squash offers a natural sweetness, while the Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch. The pasta wraps it all together, and the smoky flavor from the sausage elevates the dish to something truly comforting. Preparing this meal quickly transforms any weeknight into a festive autumn feast.

This recipe is all about bringing people together through delicious food. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a hearty, satisfying meal that captures the glory of fall. As the seasons change, enjoy this easy yet delicious dish to celebrate every moment around the dinner table.

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Fundamentals

Creating a fabulous Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash starts with understanding the foundational elements of the dish. The combination of butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, smoked sausage, and bow tie pasta results in an exceptionally satisfying meal. Prioritize the quality of your ingredients, as they play a critical role in achieving flavorful outcomes.

Start by preparing the butternut squash. This versatile ingredient provides a sweet, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the savory smoked sausage. Brussels sprouts add a necessary crunch, balancing the soft texture of the pasta and squash. Each component shines while contributing to a harmonious blend of flavors.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preheating the oven to 200°C. This temperature ensures that the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts roast beautifully, developing a deep, rich flavor. The cooking process begins with the butternut squash, which requires peeling, seeding, and cubing.

In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with a tablespoon of olive oil, adding salt and pepper to taste. Spread the squash in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roasting butternut squash should take about 15-20 minutes, turning it once for even cooking.

Next, prepare the Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends and cut them in half to allow them to cook evenly. Toss the sprouts with two tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a separate baking sheet in a single layer and roast at the same temperature for 20-30 minutes, encouraging them to caramelize slightly.

Ingredients

For this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, you will need:

• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for squash)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for squash)
• 340 grams Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for Brussels sprouts)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for Brussels sprouts)
• 225 grams bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sausage)
• 340 grams cooked smoked sausage (cajun, andouille, or regular smoked sausage)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste (for pasta)
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Gather all these ingredients before starting to make the cooking process flow smoothly. Each ingredient plays a unique role in enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Directions

Once the roasted vegetables are ready, and the pasta is cooked, bring everything together in one pan. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Stir in the bow tie pasta, cooking according to package directions until al dente. Drain and remember to reserve some pasta water to adjust texture later if needed.

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Slice the cooked smoked sausage into bite-sized coins and brown them evenly on both sides in the skillet. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside, allowing the flavors to rest.

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then add two tablespoons of butter, stirring until melted. Toss in the drained pasta, coating it well with the flavorful garlic butter mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika to elevate the dish.

Now it’s time to combine everything. Add the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and cooked sausage back into the skillet. Gently mix to combine all ingredients, ensuring each piece gets coated in those fantastic flavors. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and voilà! Your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is ready to serve.

Creating the Ultimate Autumn Dish

Technique

Perfecting this dish is all about technique and timing. Ensure you roast the vegetables separately to allow each to develop its unique flavors. The butternut squash should be tender while the Brussels sprouts achieve a slightly crispy exterior. This contrast in textures adds excitement to every bite.

When cooking pasta, time your preparation carefully. Start boiling the water to save time. The pasta cooks quickly, so be ready to finish the rest of the dish just as the pasta is nearing its al dente state.

Tips and Tricks

For the best flavor, always taste as you go. If a bite seems too bland, season with additional salt or pepper. Adding extra herbs like thyme can enhance the overall profile, bringing a fresh touch to the earthy flavors. Don’t shy away from drizzling a touch of olive oil at the end to amplify the richness.

Experimentation can lead to new variations. Consider using different types of sausages or even plant-based alternatives for a lighter version. Substituting different pasta shapes can also bring a new visual appeal to your dish.

Elevating Your Fall Experience

Perfecting Results

To achieve uniformly cooked roasted vegetables, cut them into even-sized pieces. This allows for consistent cooking, so you won’t have some burnt bits and some raw pieces. Monitoring the oven while roasting will also prevent overcooking and maintain the desired texture.

When mixing all components, incorporate them gently to avoid breaking the pasta or squishing the roasted vegetables. Ensuring everything remains intact greatly enhances the presentation and mouthfeel.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your butternut squash turns out too firm, it might need a few extra minutes in the oven. Testing for tenderness with a fork will help you gauge if it needs more time without overcooking.

For added richness, consider adding a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cheese at the end. Vegan cheese can also work beautifully for a dairy-free option. Feel free to experiment with different spices or herbs based on your personal taste preference.

Servicing and Presentation

Serving and Presentation

When serving your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, take a moment to make it visually appealing. Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a sprinkle of green, and a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the overall appearance.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Its hearty nature satisfies the hungriest of appetites, while also providing a delightful array of flavors and textures.

Pairings and Storage

Pair your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash with a side salad of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal. For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or reserved pasta water to ensure the dish stays moist.

On busy weeknights, this dish truly shines as a quick, nourishing meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Embrace the comforting flavors of autumn in every bite, bringing warmth and joy to your dinner table.

The Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is not just a recipe; it’s an experience of crafting comforting food that speaks to the heart. Celebrate this season with flavors that resonate deeply and create lasting memories around the table.

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A delicious and comforting dish that combines smoked sausage, roasted butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts with bow tie pasta, perfect for chilly autumn evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for squash)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for squash)
• 340 grams Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for Brussels sprouts)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for Brussels sprouts)
• 225 grams bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sausage)
• 340 grams cooked smoked sausage (cajun, andouille, or regular smoked sausage)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste (for pasta)
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, turning once.
3. Prepare the Brussels sprouts by tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on another baking sheet. Roast for 20-30 minutes.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, then drain.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the sliced sausage in the skillet, then remove and set aside.
6. Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet, then add butter until melted. Toss in the drained pasta, seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
7. Add the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and sausage back into the skillet. Gently mix everything to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, consider substituting smoked sausage with a plant-based alternative. Adjust seasoning to taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: autumn, sausage, pasta, butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, fall recipes